Lot 289
  • 289

Scriabin, Alexander

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 GBP
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Description

  • Scriabin, Alexander
  • Fine autograph musical quotation signed ("A. Skryabin") and inscribed in Russian, from 'Enigme', from Three Pieces for piano, op.52, no.2,
  • paper
the opening nine bars of the piece, calligraphically notated in black ink on two systems of two staves each, inscribed and dated by the composer ("Enigme/ Etrange..."),

1 page, on grey card, c.17.5 x 20cm,  Moscow, 21 December 1913

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Alexander Scriabin (1872-1916) was "one of the most extraordinary figures musical culture has ever witnessed" (J. Powell in TNG), his piano works showing unique advanced harmonies, fantastic textures and a growing interest in mysticism.  Scriabin composed 'Enigme' ('Zagadka') in 1907, but his marking of "étrange" ("strange" or "peculiar"), already foreshadows late works such as 'Étrangeté', the second of the 2 Poèmes, op.63 (1911), and the Tenth Sonata (1912-1913).  This carefully symmetrical melodic line and its whole-tone harmonies, creates a sound-world characterized by ever-shifting tonalities and delicate filigree textures.